I've been re-reading the book titled, "Before Burnout - Balanced Living for Busy People." The authors, Frank Minirth, Don Hawkins, Paul Meier, and Chris Thurman, address the inner life as part of the chapter entitled "Human Ability and Divine Enablement."
They draw a distinct similarity between a strong inner life and a palm tree. The palm tree is one of the most resourceful and durable of all plants. While other trees have dead centers and thinning roots, the palm depends on a thick, strong root and living heart rather than on the condition of its leaves and bark.
The palm endures through violent storms which are common in the environment. It does this by bending its resilient trunk until the rain and wind passes. Then the palm springs back. The palm's root (which is the same size as the trunk) is able to store a great surplus of water and in time, the palm is able to produce fruit which becomes sweeter as the tree ages.
The authors point to Psalm 1:2-4 ("Blessed in the man whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law...day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers."
Here's the main point: "We will bear fruit, all kinds of good deeds, and will grow spiritually as we get to know God better and better."
Get to know God better and better and you'll be serving strong!
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